One day a special
treat while visiting my friend in Annapolis. It was not so easy to
tear myself away from the lovely serene view on her deck. And the
non-stop talking. Donna and I met at the National Genealogical
Society's first Conference in the States (Atlanta 1981) and remained
fast friends through many years of conferences thereafter. It was also the same venue where she met her match in George, then editor of the NGSQ. I wanted
to say a word or two about one day in August because she left our world a few
years ago.
We were ready for
the genealogist's second love: history. We went to nearby London
Town, where the original seventeenth century seaport was being
archaeologically assessed and partially reconstructed ... a "lost"
town coming to life. The setting on Chesapeake Bay is magnificent. An
archaeology lab is on site (a museum and other interests have been
added since I was there ... http://www.historiclondontown.org/).
Twenty-three acres
have been dedicated to the park that includes extensive woodland
gardens. Horticulture enthusiasts come to enjoy the azalea glade and
stroll the featured winter plantings.
The William Brown
House (or London Town Publik House) is the main attraction. A
National Historic Landmark, it post-dates the old town, probably
built between 1758 and 1764. It's a fine example of colonial
architecture and a living museum in itself.
Sharing the tour
with someone so involved ‒
as a supporter of London Town Foundation ‒
was special. Needless to say, a variety of educational and
historical demonstrations are presented here, along with cultural and
arts programs.
Donna's friend,
historian Greg, joined us for a walk in historic Annapolis; the
entire district is a National Historic Landmark. Shiplap House is
another (ca.1715) well preserved colonial edifice. Some believe the
former tavern is haunted by the ghost of a once-popular prostitute,
an unsolved murder.
Naturally,
refreshments were mandatory. What a pair of local experts! I wish I'd
taken more (better?) photos.
Thanks, crazy Caddy
lady and RIP.
©
2017
Brenda Dougall Merriman
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